If you are accused of a violent crime, you may face serious legal consequences that can affect your life for years to come.
Violent crimes are offenses that involve the use or threat of physical force or harm against another person. They include assault, domestic violence, family violence, battery and more. In this blog post, we will explain some of the possible charges and penalties for violent crimes in Texas.
What are the types of violent crimes in Texas?
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, some of the most common violent crimes reported in Texas were murder, manslaughter, aggravated assault and robbery. If one kills another intentionally, then they may face murder charges.
Murder is a first-degree felony offense, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Though, if the death occurs because of recklessness, the charge would likely be manslaughter instead of murder. This reduces the felony to second-degree, the maximum number of years in jail to 20 and lowers the fine up to $10,000.
Aggravated assault is an assault that causes serious bodily injury or involves the use of a deadly weapon. In Texas, this carries the same second-degree felony and potential punishments as manslaughter.
Robbery
Robbery is the theft of property from another person by using or threatening force or violence. This carries the same potential punishment as aggravated assault and manslaughter. Though, aggravated robbery is a robbery that causes serious bodily injury, involves the use of a deadly weapon, or targets an elderly or disabled person. Like murder, this is a first-degree felony offense that has a punishment that is between five years to life, in addition to a $10,000 fine.
What are the factors that can affect the charges and penalties?
The charges and penalties for violent crimes in Texas can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the nature and severity of the offense, the degree of harm or injury caused to the victim and the presence or absence of a deadly weapon.
It can also include the criminal history and background of the offender, the age and vulnerability of the victim, the relationship between the offender and the victim and the circumstances and evidence of the case.